The Kansas Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross has provided assistance to eight people after four fires in Junction City in the past two days.

Local Red Cross volunteers responded and distributed assistance based on national guidelines to meet the immediate needs of shelter, food, and clothing for those impacted by disaster.

“We encourage everyone to have a fire escape plan,” said Lisa Biggs, Disaster Program Manager. “Having a plan can help save lives.”

MAKE A PLAN The Red Cross recommends that households develop a fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year with everyone who lives in the home. People should know two ways to escape from every room and designate a place to meet outside the home in case of a fire.

Other safety steps include:

Follow the escape plan in case of fire. Get out, stay out, and call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

Install smoke alarms on every level of the house and inside bedrooms.

Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year. Test each alarm monthly by pushing the test button.